St. Mary Roman Catholic Parish in Mokena will host the arm of the Apostle, St. Jude Thaddeus for public veneration on Friday, November 22nd from 2 PM to 10 PM with a Mass at 6:30 PM.
The relic has been traveling across the United States for the past year. It offers a unique opportunity for devotees and the curious alike to experience a connection with one of the most venerated figures in Christian history.
Father Carlos Martins, CC, a Custos Reliquiarum (ecclesiastically-appointed curate of relics) and director of Treasures of the Church, is accompanying the relic on its nationwide pilgrimage.
“Regarded as the patron saint of lost causes and desperate situations,” Martins notes, “the visit provides an opportunity for individuals to experience intimacy with someone who dwells in Heaven and beholds God face-to-face. It allows devotees to receive his blessing and entrust him with their petitions.”
By attending the event, pilgrims will be able to receive an extraordinary Plenary Indulgence issued by Pope Francis and published by the Vatican’s Apostolic Penitentiary. Standing-room-only crowds are expected.
“I am so overjoyed that St. Mary was chosen to participate in this visitation of St. Jude’s relic!” says Fr. Dindo Billote, pastor of St. Mary Mokena. “St. Jude, the patron saint of impossible causes, brings hope in prayer for miracles!”
About the Relic
Saint Jude Thaddeus was one of Christ’s Twelve Apostles, and he is understood to be Christ’s first cousin. Saint Jude’s body was buried in the place of his martyrdom but was transferred to Rome during the time of Emperor Constantine. His tomb rests directly below the main altar of the left transept of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Several centuries ago, Saint Jude’s arm was removed and placed in a simple wooden reliquary carved in the shape of a priestly arm, imparting a blessing. This relic resides within the same reliquary today.
More information about the relic may be found at https://apostleoftheimpossible.com/.
The Mokena Marian 